A. Possession and sale of black sea bass by a hatchery or black sea bass aquaculture operation and purchase and possession of black sea bass from a hatchery or black sea bass aquaculture operation shall be exempt from season and size limit restrictions.

B. It is unlawful to possess, sell, purchase or transport such black sea bass unless they are in compliance with all conditions of the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries Aquaculture Operation Permit.

C. It is unlawful to possess black sea bass from a hatchery or aquaculture operation without receipts or bills of lading documenting the origin of the fish.